Question

[Ellieellie]

I am applying for PIA and have to attend for a health assessment next week. Does anyone know what this entails? This is the first time I have tried to claim anything and any advice would be gratefully received. Thank you.

[oldtimer]

There a loads of accounts and advice posts on here - have a search for what people have said. It sounds very variable and go prepared to show yourself at your worst.

[MrsBones123]

This might be helpful too Ellieellie - citizensadvice.org.uk/benef...

There is also a lot of free advice on benefits and work website, also youreable website. Lots of 'info' to take in I know, especially if the benefits system is new to you, but it will give you an idea of what to expect at the assessment. As oldtimer said, it seems very variable.

If you have a physical examination and something they ask you to do would hurt, say so.

The advice seems to be to ask someone to go with you if possible. Also take a copy of your claim form so you can refer to it when asked questions about your answers. - easy to forget when maybe feeling a bit nervous. My mind went a blank at my last one, so glad I took it.

Hope it goes well for you. x

[Ellieellie in reply to MrsBones123]

Thank you. Unfortunately I did not keep a copy of the claim form, never thought to do so. My husband will come with me and drive me there and back. Getting anxious about it .

[MrsBones123 in reply to Ellieellie]

It will be a relief to get it over with, I'm sure. Hope you get a nice assessor. xx

[Bailybiscuit]

I went for one a few weeks ago. I took copies of hospital letters. The lady doing it was very nice and asked me how my conditions affected me in the home. I had to remember what I had written, which I could remember easily. I had to sit on the edge of a couch and she told me to push against her hand with my hand, arm or legs. I didn't have to stand on one leg as she obviously thought rightly that I couldn't. I am still waiting to hear if I have passed. I hope you do good luck.

[Ellieellie in reply to Bailybiscuit]

Thank you x